This creamy broccoli soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s made with fresh broccoli, onions, and a touch of cream for that rich flavor. Perfect for a chilly day!
I love how quick and easy this soup is to whip up. Just blend, heat, and serve! It pairs well with a slice of crusty bread, making it a delightful meal! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key for bright flavor and color. If you can’t find fresh, use frozen florets. Just skip the thawing; add them directly to the pot for cooking!
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the soup. Shallots are a nice substitute if you want a milder flavor, or use leeks for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. For dairy-free, try coconut milk or cashew cream.
Broth: Chicken broth brings out great flavor, but vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian and just as tasty! Homemade broth can enhance the soup even more.
Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a warm hint that complements the broccoli beautifully. If you don’t have it, a pinch of paprika or cayenne can give a nice kick!
How Do You Get a Smooth Texture for the Soup?
A smooth texture is what makes cream of broccoli soup comforting! Here’s how to achieve it:
- After cooking the broccoli until tender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splattering.
- If using a blender, blend in batches: fill halfway, secure the lid tightly, and hold down with a towel to prevent steam buildup.
- For a super silky texture, strain the blended soup through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
Remember to return the soup to a low heat after blending to keep it warm without boiling!
How to Make Cream of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Croutons
- Sour cream or creme fraiche (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy soup night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor for your soup!
2. Create the Roux:
Next, stir in the flour, cooking it for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. This forms a roux that helps thicken your soup later on.
3. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the broth while ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic starts to happen!
4. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cover it. Let them simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender. The vibrant green color will brighten your kitchen!
5. Blend the Soup:
Once the broccoli is tender, take the pot off the heat. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches until creamy.
6. Add the Cream:
Return the soup to low heat and gently stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat through but avoid boiling it at this stage to keep it creamy.
7. Season to Taste:
It’s time to add flavor! Season with salt, pepper, and the optional ground nutmeg. Stir well and taste to adjust the seasoning.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish it with a dollop of sour cream or creme fraiche, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives, and a handful of crunchy croutons. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
With its creamy texture and fresh broccoli flavor, this soup is sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Soup?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen broccoli, you can add it directly to the pot without thawing. Just be sure to increase the cooking time slightly, as frozen broccoli may need a few extra minutes to become tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make the soup vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Use vegetable broth and replace butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. It will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time! Just make it up to the point of adding the cream, let it cool, and then refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove!